cylinder head

American  

noun

1. (in a reciprocating engine or pump) a detachable plate or cover on the end opposite to that from which the piston rod or connecting rod projects.

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cylinder head British  

noun

1. Sometimes shortened to: head.  the detachable metal casting that fits onto the top of a cylinder block. In an engine it contains part of the combustion chamber and in an overhead-valve four-stroke engine it houses the valves and their operating mechanisms

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Etymology

Origin of cylinder head

First recorded in 1880–85

Example Sentences

They’ll also install a tube to drain fuel from the cylinder head and away from hot surfaces.

From Seattle Times • Nov. 24, 2022

"Following a study about the economics of cylinder head suppliers, Renault Group has found another supplier that will start working with us from 2024," a Renault spokesman said.

From Reuters • Aug. 23, 2022

If you wanted your engine’s cylinder head ported or a metal flake lacquer finish laid down on your roadster, this was the place to go.

From Washington Post • Dec. 25, 2017

A few other companies use these “opposed-piston engines” as well, and the absence of the cylinder head and the elimination of many other parts makes them lighter and cheaper than conventional engines.

From New York Times • Jun. 20, 2012

“If we had a wrench to get the cylinder head off,” said Tom, “I could show you.”

From Tom Slade on a Transport by Clarity, Thomas